Why do inventories cost so much to maintain? Provide some examples of how cost is associated with carrying an inventory. Is there anything we can do to lower this cost, and if so, what? In addition to the question above, explain how excess inventories can erode profitability.
Discuss why supply chain management (SCM) has become so important. Identify companies that have a well known SCM system. Do these companies have anything in common when it comes to their implementation of SCM? Can you identify and define four (4) attributes of Supply Chain Management?
How can a transportation manager take advantage of trade-offs between price and service? As a transportation manager, when would you want to take advantage of these trade-offs?
Discuss the location selection criteria for distribution centers, warehouses, and manufacturing plants. How might these factors be considered important when locating a manufacturing facility? How do they differ from the factors considered important when locating a distribution facility?
What type of functional and perceptual benefits do labeling and packaging provide to the consumer? What are the two emerging trends in packaging and why are they important?
What role has technology had in order processing? What are some of the key technology elements that you see in your daily shopping? What do you think will be the next big technology development in order processing?
What is the relationship between purchasing and procurement? Discuss three potential procurement objectives. Describe the relevance of the procurement process in a logistics system.
Discuss how developing nations ensure that a good portion of supply chain transactions are conducted within their borders. What are some of the challenges associated with the international logistics?
Discuss how accountants and logistic professions differ in terms of their approach to inventory control. Provide an example of how each would measure a company’s inventory.
In logistical terms, what does system analysis refer to? What is the difference between a partial systems analysis and a comprehensive systems analysis?
Explain why transport rates typically vary by 1) the weight of the shipment; 2) the distance a shipment is transported; and 3) the value of the transport service. Provide an example of how these variables affect a shipping rate.
Contrast qualitative, historical projection, and causal forecasting models. What are the strengths and weaknesses of each of these models?
Discuss the differences between facility layouts for office, production, and warehouses. How does the layout of a warehouse impact the effectiveness and efficiency of a warehouse?
Warehouse Management System
What is a warehouse management system (WMS)? What are the benefits and downfalls of a WMS in a warehousing operation?
